Just to follow up on the “Interview of Dudley Beagle in Jupiter, FL” blog on bulk foods. I was asked by a reader: “What are bulk foods?” Bulk foods mean that the food is high in fiber. Therefore, when a dog eats foods that have a lot of fiber, fiber expands in the belly so the dog fills up faster and the dog does not have to consume so much food. Hence, eating less over time, the dog will lose weight. Some examples of bulk foods that are high in fiber are green beans (canned or raw) and canned Pumpkin. We prefer organic because you get the full nutrients and they don’t contain pesticides.

I was asked by another reader: Does the high fiber/bulk foods apply only to Beagles? The answer is no! Any dog can eat green beans and pumpkin. However, the breeds that are prone to gain weight are Beagles, Labs, Jack Russells, Chihuahua, Dachshunds, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Bassett Hounds, Boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boxer, and Bulldog. To read more go to The Top 10 breeds Most Likely to Gain Weight.

The Next Question is how much to give?

With green beans you add about ¼ can or more, and you can either microwave them about ten seconds in a ceramic bowl or you can give them fresh out of the can and add as a topper to their kibble. With pumpkin, you can give a tablespoon. They will love it!

Another benefit of pumpkin is, it is good for their digestion. If your dog has a slightly loose stool or diarrhea, pumpkin can bulk up their stool. Meaning, it will make the stool more formed. You can also give it as a treat to promote healthy digestion.

And, on a side note, if you want to make a treat for your dog, you can even mix pumpkin and goat’s milk yogurt and either scoop them in an ice tray or a bowl to freeze in the freezer and your dog would be so delighted to have a frozen doggy ice cream. Why not give it a try!